Winter Storms

Winter storms can range from moderate snow over a few hours to blizzard conditions with blinding, wind-driven snow or freezing rain that lasts several days. The time to prepare is before the snow and ice begin to fall. Begin by learning the warning terms. A "winter storm watch" indicates that severe winter weather may affect your area. A "winter storm warning" indicates that severe winter weather conditions are definitely on the way. A "blizzard warning" means that large amounts of falling or blowing snow and sustained winds of at least 35 miles per hour are expected for several hours.
Before

Listen to NOAA Weather Radio or local radio or television for weather reports and emergency information.

Wear several layers of loose-fitting, light-weight, warm clothing rather than 1 layer of heavy clothing.

Wear mittens instead of gloves.

Wear a hat; most body heat is lost through the top of the head.

Avoid overexertion.

Watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia. If symptoms are detected, get medical help immediately. A loss of feeling and a white or pale appearance in fingers, toes, or nose and ear lobes are symptoms of frostbite. Symptoms of hypothermia include uncontrollable shivering, slow speech, memory lapses, frequent stumbling, drowsiness, and exhaustion. If frostbite or hypothermia is suspected begin warming the person slowly. Warm the person's trunk first. Use your own body heat to help. Arms and legs should be warmed last since stimulation of the arms and legs can drive blood to the heart and lead to heart failure. Never give a frostbite or hypothermia victim something with caffeine or alcohol in it. Caffeine can cause the heart to beat faster and hasten the effects cold has on the body. Alcohol can slow the heart and also hasten ill effects of cold body temperature.